As a thunderstorm travels over the area in which I live, I spy one of my dogs cowering behind our couch. This dog, mind you, is a killer of anything unlawfully treading in our yard. RIP to two rabbits, three squirrels and a possum. Also, my apologies to a skunk who barely escaped the trauma, but lived to see another day.
It’s fascinating how a dog, or person, for that matter, can be so brave in one area and a complete coward in others. A person can be superman- faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound! But, perhaps not if a spider’s in the way…or some other terrifying fear. Being honest with emotions? Exposing an unlikable side? Nope. Tap Out.
Youth sometimes comes with an air of fearlessness, but as brave as I was- the thought of asking someone out terrified me. The fear of rejection…ouch! With age comes wisdom and the realization that the worst that could happen is they say “no.” (Big deal). But, tell me that 30 years ago and I’d manufacture a hundred different reasons why it was a bad idea. Skydive out of a plane or ask a boy out? I’d grab the parachute every time.
Dealing with people that have a hundred reasons why they can’t or don’t want to accomplish something is tiresome. Motivations need to be explored…fears tamed, so life can be more fulfilling.
At the age of 26, still not fully confident in asking someone out, I did it for the first and last time. We’ve been together for 25 years. It seemed to go OK.
I love you, friends! ❤ Be brave. Have a wonderful weekend!!
“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” -Nelson Mandela
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” -John 14:27
Toni L. Harty 